Lake in the Hills man contracts West Nile virus

A Lake in the Hills man tested positive for West Nile virus last week, becoming the first McHenry County resident afflicted with the disease this year.

The 34-year-old man was not hospitalized after the discovery and is at home on a treatment regimen of rest, fluids and non-prescription pain medication, health authorities said Friday.

The man tested positive Aug. 24 after going to his doctor complaining of a fever and aches. It is believed he contracted the disease locally in mid-August.

"He hasn't been out of the area on a vacation, and he lives and works in the area," said Debra Quackenbush, community information coordinator for the McHenry County Department of Health. "He got it in the normal course of his life."

The case is just the 14th in Illinois this year. There were 215 reported cases in 2006 and 252 in 2005.

The infection is surprising given weather conditions this month. Although recent heavy rains and flooding are conducive for some mosquito species, the Culex mosquito that spreads West Nile breeds in hot, dry conditions.

"It just goes to show you can't let your guard down," Quackenbush said.

To reduce the risk of contracting West Nile, health authorities suggest limiting time outside during peak mosquito biting hours, wearing long-sleeves and pants during evening and late morning, eliminate standing water around your home and spraying clothes with repellent containing DEET.